Health Matters

Why Allergies Happen and How to Find Relief

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison) — Wed, 8 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Why do allergies happen—and why do they seem to be getting worse every year? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. David Gudis, an otolaryngologist and chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, to break down the basics of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis.

Dr. Gudis explains what’s really behind common allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and brain fog, and why hay fever is actually an overreaction of the immune system—not the pollen itself. He discusses why allergy seasons are lasting longer, how environmental factors and modern living may play a role, and the surprising ways allergies can affect sleep, concentration, and mental health.

This episode offers practical, science‑based guidance—from simple prevention strategies to over‑the‑counter treatments and allergy shots—to help you breathe easier this season and beyond.

Chapters:

00:00 – What Is Hay Fever?
An introduction to allergic rhinitis and why allergy symptoms happen

04:00 – Why Are Allergy Seasons Getting Worse?
Climate, environment, and changes in immune response

09:40 – How Do Allergies Affect Sleep, Focus, and Mental Health?
The surprising impact on wellbeing, mood, and daily life

10:45 – How Do I Find Relief? Treatments That Work
Avoidance strategies, medications, allergy shots, and nasal rinses

Key Topics Covered:

Hay fever / allergic rhinitis
Immune system overreaction
Seasonal and environmental allergies
Mental health and sleep disruption
Pollen season and climate effects
Allergy prevention and treatment
Nasal sprays, antihistamines, and immunotherapy

Takeaway Message:

Hay fever isn’t “just allergies” — it’s a real, systemic condition caused by an overactive immune response that can affect sleep, mood, concentration, and quality of life. The good news? Effective treatments exist, and with the right approach, allergy symptoms can be controlled

Doctor Bio:

Dr. David Gudis is an otolaryngologist and Chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia. He specializes in disorders of the nose and sinuses, including allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and nasal inflammation. Dr. Gudis is dedicated to helping patients understand the root causes of their symptoms and access effective, personalized treatments that improve daily life and overall wellbeing.

Gut Health, Fiber, and the Microbiome, Explained

podcasts@nyp.org (NewYork-Presbyterian) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

What does your gut really do—and how can you keep it healthy? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Haley Zylberberg, a gastroenterologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to find out the basics of gut health, from digestion and the microbiome to fiber, fermented foods, and the gut‑brain connection.

Dr. Zylberberg explains how fiber supports digestion, why everyone’s “normal” gut function looks different, and how stress and mental health can directly affect the digestive system. She also shares signs of a healthy gut, red flags that shouldn’t be ignored, and why colorectal cancer screening is so important—especially as younger adults are being diagnosed more often.

Whether you’re curious about probiotics, wondering how much fiber you really need, or looking to better understand your body, this episode offers practical, science‑backed guidance to help support lifelong gut health.

Chapters:

00:00 – The Basics of Gut Health and the Microbiome
What the gut is, how digestion works, and why the microbiome plays a critical role in overall health.

06:30 – Fiber, Food, and Supporting Your Gut
How fiber supports digestion, how much you need each day, common misconceptions, and tips for increasing fiber safely.

11:30 – The Gut‑Brain Connection
How stress affects digestion, why the gut and brain communicate so closely, and what that means for digestive symptoms.

15:10 – Red Flags and Colorectal Cancer Screening
Warning signs of an unhealthy gut, when to see a doctor, and why colorectal cancer screening is essential and preventive.

Key Topics Covered

· Gut anatomy and digestion

· The gut microbiome and “good” bacteria

· Fiber benefits and daily fiber intake

· Fermented foods and probiotics

· Gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea

· The gut‑brain connection and stress

· Red flag digestive symptoms

· Colorectal cancer prevention and screening guidelines

Takeaway Message
Your gut plays a central role in your overall health, and small, consistent habits—like eating enough fiber, managing stress, and knowing what’s normal for your body—can make a big difference. Paying attention to changes and staying up to date with recommended screenings can help catch problems early and even prevent serious disease.

Expert Guest

Dr. Haley Zylberberg’s clinical focus is general gastroenterology, with a specialization in celiac disease. She has a sustained interest in patient-outcomes research using large databases and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on celiac disease diagnosis and its clinical manifestations.

Dr. Zylberberg earned her B.A. in neuroscience and behavior from Columbia University and her medical degree at Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine, where she graduated with a distinction in research. She completed internal medicine residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, followed by a gastroenterology fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she served as chief fellow. During her fellowship, Dr. Zylberberg undertook advanced training in research methods, culminating in a master's degree in patient-oriented research from Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health.

How Do Endocrine Disruptors Impact Our Health?

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Mary L. Rosser) — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Dr. Mary Rosser, obstetrician gynecologist and director of Fazzalari Women’s Health at NewYork-Presbyterian The One and Columbia, joins us to explain how the endocrine system functions and how external chemicals can disrupt hormonal signals that influence metabolism, fertility, cancer risk, and long-term health.

She details the most common sources of endocrine disruptors — including plastics, personal care items, cleaning products, and pesticides — and shares clear, manageable strategies for reducing everyday exposure. Dr. Rosser’s guidance empowers listeners to make small, sustainable changes that can help protect hormonal well‑being.

Chapters:

00:00:00 — Understanding Hormones and Endocrine Disruptors

00:05:01 — Health Effects Linked to Endocrine Disruptors

00:09:55 — Everyday Sources and How to Reduce Exposure

00:17:28 — Can the Body Recover? Practical Steps and Final Takeaways

Key Topics Covered

What hormones are and how the endocrine system works
What endocrine disruptors are and how they interfere with hormone signaling
How endocrine disruptors enter the body (skin, food, air)
Health impacts: metabolism, fertility, cancer risk, and chronic conditions
Common sources of disruptors (plastics, BPA, phthalates, cosmetics, cleaning products, pesticides, microplastics)
Practical ways to reduce exposure in daily life
How to monitor hormone health and when to talk to a doctor
The body’s ability to recover once exposure is reduced

Takeaway Message
This episode empowers listeners to understand how everyday chemicals can interfere with the body’s delicate hormonal system — and shows that small, practical changes in the products we use and the foods we choose can meaningfully reduce exposure.

Expert Guest

Dr. Mary L. Rosser, M.D., Ph.D., NCMP is an obstetrician gynecologist and the director of Fazzalari Women’s Health at NewYork-Presbyterian The One and Columbia. She is the Richard U. and Ellen J. Levine Assistant Professor of Women's Health (in Obstetrics and Gynecology) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons. She joined the faculty of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University in April 2018 to provide routine gynecology care and to further develop a comprehensive well-woman program. She has been a practicing obstetrician gynecologist for more than 20 years, starting in private practice and then joining the faculty at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY. While at Montefiore, she created, launched, and led the forty-person Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rosser received her undergraduate degree at Emory University and a Ph.D. in Endocrinology at the Medical College of Georgia. She attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Emory University. She is also a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner, able to provide high-quality care for patients at menopause and beyond.

Primary care and heart disease in women have always been areas of focus for Dr. Rosser. She conducted basic science research on heart disease during graduate school and was the Chair of the "Women & Heart Disease Physician Education Initiative" for District II of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology. She continues to conduct clinical studies around patient awareness and understanding of heart disease and well-woman care. Dr. Rosser serves on the Medical Leadership Team of the Go Red for Women movement of the American Heart Association and she is ACOG's liaison to the American College of Cardiology.

Diet and Your Heart: Can What You Eat Improve Your Numbers?

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Sean Mendez) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

How much can what you eat really influence your heart health — and how quickly can you improve your blood pressure or cholesterol through diet? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with cardiologist Dr. Sean Mendez of NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to break down the real connection between food and cardiovascular wellbeing.

They explore what your health numbers mean — from blood pressure ranges to LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and the emerging marker ApoB — and how these values signal current or future risk. Dr. Mendez explains how dietary shifts can lower LDL cholesterol by 3 to 15 percent and reduce blood pressure by several points, even without medication. He also discusses salt sensitivity, the impact of saturated fats and processed foods, and why soluble fiber, healthy fats, and whole foods can play a powerful role in improving cholesterol.

The conversation dives into the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet, outlining how each works, what they emphasize, and the evidence behind their ability to reduce blood pressure and overall cardiovascular risk. Dr. Mendez offers practical tips for getting started and key lifestyle factors that are essential for heart health.

Whether you're hoping to lower your numbers, prevent future heart issues, or simply make more informed choices at the grocery store, this episode provides clear, accessible guidance on building a heart‑healthy way of eating.

Chapters:

01:13 – What Do Heart Health Numbers Mean?

04:33 – How Quickly Diet Changes Improve Labs

10:59 – How to Start Changing Eating Habits

Key Topics Covered

What cholesterol, blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and ApoB measure
How these numbers relate to cardiovascular disease risk
Healthy ranges for blood pressure and cholesterol
How diet can lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure
How quickly lab results change after modifying eating habits
The role of salt sensitivity and saturated fats in heart health
Foods that help lower LDL, including soluble fiber and healthy fats
The DASH diet: its structure, purpose, and evidence for lowering blood pressure
The Mediterranean diet: core foods, flexibility, and cardiovascular benefits
Differences between DASH and Mediterranean diets
Practical starting points for improving eating habits
Benefits of tracking food intake and identifying patterns
Easy, heart‑healthy food and snack swaps
Why lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, exercise, and limiting alcohol matter
Common misconceptions about eating for heart health
Why heart‑healthy eating is beneficial at every age

Takeaway Message
Small, consistent changes to your diet and lifestyle can meaningfully improve your heart health — at any age. Understanding your numbers (like LDL, blood pressure, and ApoB) empowers you to make targeted choices, and evidence‑based eating patterns such as the DASH or Mediterranean diet can lower risk over time. Even if medications are part of your care, diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management remain essential tools for protecting your heart.

Expert Guest

Dr. Sean Mendez is a non-invasive cardiologist at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn-Methodist Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.

His clinical interests include preventive cardiology, valvular heart disease, and cardiovascular imaging, including echocardiography, stress testing, and vascular imaging. In addition to seeing patients in his outpatient clinic, he provides inpatient care in the cardiac care unit, cardiac telemetry unit, and consultative cardiology service. Dr. Mendez is passionate about providing his patients with the highest-quality, comprehensive cardiovascular care. He addresses all aspects of health to prevent the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Mendez, a native of Buffalo, New York, graduated magna cum laude from the University of Alabama with a bachelor's degree in both biology and mathematics. He attended medical school at the University at Buffalo, where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society. Dr. Mendez then completed his residency in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He then completed his fellowship in cardiology at the Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was chief fellow.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

Is ‘Cozy Cardio’ as Effective as High-Intensity Workouts?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Jessica Hennessey, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Jessica Hennessey, cardiologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, about the trend of cozy cardio and how accessible, home‑based movement can support cardiovascular health. Dr. Hennessey explains why moderate‑intensity exercise is both sustainable and effective, offering improvements in cardiovascular function, metabolism, and daily energy levels.

The discussion explores the benefits of walking versus running, how heart rate zones help guide workout intensity, and the importance of rest and active recovery. Dr. Hennessey also highlights how movement helps regulate stress and why strength training—especially for women—is essential for long‑term metabolic and bone health.

Chapters:

Chapter 1: Understanding Cozy Cardio – Convenience, Comfort, and Where it Fits in Heart Health

Understanding cozy cardio and how low‑impact movement supports heart health, and how it lowers barriers to exercise and makes movement feel inviting.
Chapter 2: Why Moderate Exercise Matters

Chapter 3: Cozy Doesn’t Mean Easy—Just Accessible

Chapter 4: Walking vs. Running: Which Is Better for the Heart?

Chapter 5: Using Heart Rate to Guide Your Workout

Chapter 6: The Importance of Rest Days and Recovery

Chapter 7: HIIT: Benefits, Risks, and When to Use It

Chapter 8: Strength Training & Heart Health, Especially for Women

Chapter 9: Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine

Chapter 10: Final Takeaway

Key Topics Covered

What cozy cardio is and examples
How cozy cardio focuses on convenience, comfort and lowering barriers to exercise.
Moderate vs. High-Intensity Exercise
- How it can improve VO2 max
Accessibility and sustainability in fitness
Walking vs. running
Using heart rate as a guide for exercise
The importance of rest days
Exercise as stress reduction
HIIT workouts: explanation, benefits and risk
Strength training and heart health
Building a sustainable routine by choosing activities you enjoy and making movement a natural part of the day

Takeaway Message
Meaningful improvements in cardiovascular health do not require high‑intensity workouts. Moderate, accessible forms of exercise—such as “cozy cardio”—can effectively enhance heart and metabolic function, support stress regulation, and promote long‑term adherence. By prioritizing comfort, sustainability, and consistency, individuals can integrate movement into their daily routines in ways that are both achievable and beneficial for overall health.

Expert Guest

Dr. Jessica Hennessey is an electrophysiologist who specializes in arrhythmia management with a special focus on catheter ablation, pacemakers/defibrillators, and atrial fibrillation at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Hennessey is also the Esther Aboodi Assistant Professor of Cardiology (in medicine) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and cardiac electrophysiology.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

How Does Alcohol Change Your Brain?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Hugh Cahill, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

What really happens in your brain when you drink alcohol — and what are the long-term effects over a lifetime? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Hugh Cahill, a neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian the One and Columbia, to break down the science behind alcohol’s impact on brain health.

They explore how alcohol affects neurotransmitters to create feelings of relaxation and euphoria, why it can impair memory, coordination, and judgment, and how even moderate drinking is linked to increase risk of brain shrinkage, vascular damage, mood disorders, and dementia. Dr. Cahill also explains the cumulative nature of alcohol’s effects and shares practical, evidence-based ways to protect your brain as you age — highlighting the powerful role of exercise, cardiovascular health, nutrition, sleep, and reducing alcohol intake.

Whether you’re curious about Dry January, worried about memory and aging, or simply want to make informed choices about your health, this conversation offers clear, expert insight into how your habits today shape your brain tomorrow.

Key Topics Covered

How alcohol affects neurotransmitters (glutamate, GABA, dopamine, endorphins)
Why alcohol causes relaxation, lowered inhibition, and impaired coordination
Long-term effects: brain atrophy, neuron loss, memory impairment
Alcohol as a neurotoxin
Links between alcohol and:
- Cumulative, lifelong impact of drinking—even at low to moderate levels
- Role of exercise in promoting neurogenesis and brain resilience
- Importance of cardiovascular health, vitamins (B1, B12), and metabolic health
- Limited evidence that puzzles or brain games prevent cognitive decline
- Practical brain-health strategies

Takeaway Message
Brain health is shaped by long-term habits. Because alcohol’s effects are cumulative and even moderate use is linked to structural and vascular brain changes, reducing intake — along with exercising and managing cardiovascular risk factors—can meaningfully protect cognitive function and quality of life as we age.

Expert Guest

Dr. Hugh Cahill is an M.D./Ph.D.-trained general neurologist providing comprehensive care for patients with a broad range of neurological conditions at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Cahill sees individuals with headaches, seizures, strokes, numbness, weakness, memory changes, and other common neurological concerns. Dr. Cahill as both a clinician and scientist supports an evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, with an emphasis on careful evaluation and clear communication.

For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.

Can Biohacking Reverse the Aging Process?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Rekha Kumar, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Rekha Kumar, endocrinologist and primary care physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to unpack the science behind aging well. They discuss biohacking, longevity, and health span, separating evidence-based strategies from social media hype and exploring what truly helps us age well.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

What “biohacking” really means

● How biohacking ranges from simple lifestyle optimization to high-tech, experimental interventions

● The difference between lifespan (how long you live) and health span (how long you live well)

The Longevity Pyramid

● Why the foundation of healthy aging is built on:

Sleep
Movement and strength training
Nutrition
Stress management
Social connection

● How advanced tools and supplements sit at the top—and why they should never replace the basics

Wearables and Tracking

● How devices like smartwatches, glucose monitors, and fitness trackers can support behavior change

● When tracking becomes counterproductive or stressful

Peptides and “Anti-Aging” Supplements

● What’s proven (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists)

● What’s still experimental or under-studied (BPC-157, sermorelin, NAD boosters)

Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancers

● Everyday nootropics like caffeine

● The role of L-theanine for “calm focus”

● Myths around perfectly timed caffeine and cortisol rhythms

Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition

● How genes can influence responses to foods (e.g., lactose intolerance, APOE and saturated fat)

● Why many direct-to-consumer genetic tests may overpromise

The Gut Microbiome

● The role of Akkermansia muciniphila in metabolic health

● How medications like metformin and GLP-1s may positively shift gut bacteria

● What’s still unknown about probiotic supplementation

Genetic and Biomarker Testing

● The difference between actionable medical insights and “information overload”

● Why results of unknown significance can cause unnecessary anxietyThe Big Takeaways

● There are no true shortcuts to longevity

● Sustainable habits beat quick fixes

● Our biology is built for rhythms, not constant optimization

Featured Expert

About Rekha B. Kumar, M.D., M.S.

Dr. Rekha B. Kumar is an attending endocrinologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an associate professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in adult primary care and endocrinology and has academic expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various endocrine disorders, including obesity/weight management, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, as well as metabolic bone disease.

Dr. Kumar completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and received her masters degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. She received her M.D. from New York Medical College and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Kumar obtained her clinical fellowship in the combined Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism program at the NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Kumar is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism, and Obesity Medicine.

Coming Up Next

In the next episode of Health Matters, we’ll explore brain health and the short- and long-term effects of alcohol on the brain with Dr. Hugh Cahill. Subscribe and follow Health Matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to stay up to date with expert-driven conversations on living well at every stage of life.

About Health Matters

Health Matters is your bi-weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

ADVANCES IN CARE: Exploring Psychedelics as the Next Wave of Psychiatric Innovation

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, we’re sharing an episode of NewYork-Presbyterian’s Advances in Care, a show for listeners who want to stay at the forefront of the latest medical innovations and research.

On this episode of Advances in Care, host Erin Welsh first hears from Dr. Richard Friedman, a clinical psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine. Using his background in psychopharmacology, Dr. Friedman distinguishes between psychedelics and standard antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, explaining the various mechanisms in the brain that respond uniquely to psychedelic compounds. Dr. Friedman also identifies that the challenge of proving efficacy of psychedelic therapy lies in the question of how to design a clinical trial that gives patients a convincing placebo.

To learn more about the challenges of trial design, Erin also speaks to Dr. David Hellerstein, a research psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Hellerstein contributed to a 2022 trial of synthetic psilocybin in patients with treatment resistant depression. He and his colleagues took a unique approach to dosing patients so that they could better understand the response rates of patients who use psychedelic therapy. The results of that trial underscore an emerging pattern in the field of psychiatry – that while psychedelic therapy has its risks, it’s also a promising alternative treatment for countless psychiatric disorders. Dr. Hellerstein also shares more about the future of clinical research on psychedelic therapies to potentially treat a range of mental health disorders.

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Dr. Richard Friedman is a professor of clinical psychiatry and is actively involved in clinical research of mood disorders. In particular, he is involved in several ongoing randomized clinical trials of both approved and investigational drugs for the treatment of major depression, chronic depression, and dysthymia.

Dr. David J. Hellerstein directs the Depression Evaluation Service at Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, which conducts studies on the medication and psychotherapy treatment of conditions including major depression, chronic depression, and bipolar disorder.

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Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Victoria Perez, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney talks with dermatologist Dr. Victoria Perez of NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia to discuss what cause shingles, how it's treated, and what to expect if you start to see symptoms.

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Dr. Victoria Perez earned her medical degree from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and completed her dermatology residency at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she served as chief resident in her final year. Dr. Perez is an active member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the Women’s Dermatologic Society, and the Skin of Color Society, where she serves on the Center for Leadership Learning Collaborative. She has authored numerous publications and presented research at both national and local conferences. She is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to all patients.

Dr. Perez provides dermatology services at NewYork-Presbyterian The One, a state-of-the-art center for advanced care with doctors from Columbia in Westchester. NewYork-Presbyterian The One is now accepting appointments and opens in September 2025. The facility will offer adult and pediatric care spanning more than 90 specialties and subspecialties, so patients can find the care they and their families need in one convenient location.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What's the Best Way to Take Care of My Eyes?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Lisa Park, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney talks with ophthalmologist Dr. Lisa Park about the best ways to take care of our eye health as we age. Dr. Park shares tips on ways to protect eye health and preserve vision, as well as some common conditions to watch out for.
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Lisa Park, MD is an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Columbia University Medical Center and an Attending Ophthalmologist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Park joined Columbia's Department of Ophthalmology in 2017, and is a well-recognized cataract surgeon with a flourishing practice on Manhattan's west side. She is an expert in the latest surgical techniques including femtosecond-laser assisted cataract surgery and the use of astigmatism and presbyopia correcting intraocular lens implants. Dr. Park lectures nationally and internationally on complex cataract surgery techniques. Her interests include global ophthalmology, and she travels regularly to Guatemala and East Africa to teach and perform humanitarian eye surgery in developing countries, serving on the boards of a number of non-profit organizations dedicated to combating world blindness.
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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

The Benefits of Blood Donation

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Elizabeth Stone, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, we revisit Courtney Allison’s conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Stone, assistant director of transfusion medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Unprecedented blood shortages mean that the need for donated blood is as critical as ever. Dr. Stone demystifies the process of giving blood, explains blood types, and shares how both the recipient and the donor can benefit from a single donation.

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Dr. Elizabeth Stone is Assistant Director of Transfusion Medicine and Cellular Therapy at NYP Columbia University, Medical Director of Clinical Pathology at NYP Westchester Hospital, and Assistant Professor of Pathology and Cell Biology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Stone’s research focuses on platelet storage conditions and platelet utilization. With advances in medical care, the demand for platelets continues to increase. She is particularly interested in investigating how platelet storage conditions may affect transfusion in different clinical scenarios and in platelet alloimmunization, with the ultimate goal to improve clinical outcomes for patients requiring platelet transfusions.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What's the Difference Between High-Fructose Corn Syrup and Cane Sugar?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Jonathan Waitman, Gabrielle Gambino, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 8 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney talks with nutritionist Gabrielle Gambino and Dr. Jonathan Waitman about the role that sweeteners play in our diet, and how certain options like high-fructose corn syrup and cane sugar impact our health.

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Dr. Jonathan Waitman is board certified in Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition. He is the course director for the nutrition curriculum and Weill Cornell Medical College. He is also the Medical Director for Specialized Nutrition Support New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill-Cornell Medical Center. Following completion of his training in Internal Medicine he then went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center where he completed a fellowship in clinical nutrition. He has co-authored numerous articles on the subject of obesity.

Gabrielle Gambino, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC has undergraduate degrees in Clinical Nutrition and Public Relations from Penn State University. She later went on to complete her Master’s in Clinical Nutrition at New York University, and obtained her specialty certification as a Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC). Gabrielle specializes in nutrition care for patients with advanced heart failure and enjoys finding novel ways to optimize patients' nutritional status before advanced therapies.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Breast Cancer Myths Debunked

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney talks with Dr. Vivian Bea, Chief of Breast Surgical Oncology, and Dr. Evelyn Taiwo, a medical oncologist, at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and Weill Cornell Medicine.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they discuss why breast cancer is on the rise among younger women, breast cancer risk factors, and the importance of screening. Dr. Bea and Dr. Taiwo also answer common questions about breast cancer, such as what age you can stop screening, and whether common items like deodorant or cell phones increase breast cancer risk.

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Vivian Jolley Bea, MD, is Section Chief of Breast Surgical Oncology in the Department of Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. Dr. Bea received her masters degree in biology from Drexel University and her medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine. Board certified in general surgery, Dr. Bea is an active member in numerous professional organizations, including the American College of Surgeons, American Society of Breast Surgeons, Society of Surgical Oncologists, and the Society of Black Academic Surgeons. Dr. Bea's areas of interest include breast cancer, benign breast disease, inflammatory breast disease, and high-risk management. She specializes in skin-sparing and nipple sparing mastectomies as well as oncoplastic breast conservation surgery. Dr. Bea is committed to community outreach, research, and eliminating breast cancer disparities.

Dr. Evelyn Taiwo, MD, is a medical oncologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. She obtained her MD at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Following her residency at Boston University Medical Center, she completed a three-year fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Prior to joining Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Taiwo served as Assistant Professor of Medicine at the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn from July 2011-2019, and as Attending Physician and Site Director for the Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Program at Kings County Hospital. While at Kings County Hospital, she served in a leadership role as Director of the Breast Cancer Clinic, overseeing the operations, research activities, clinical care delivery, and education. As a researcher, Dr. Taiwo has contributed to a number of studies on cancer presentation in urban and minority patient populations.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

ADVANCES IN CARE: Managing the Complexity of NewYork-Presbyterian’s High Volume Emergency Departments

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Advances in Care, host Erin Welsh hears from two emergency department chiefs at NewYork-Presbyterian about how they optimize operations in their uniquely high-intensity, high-volume EDs.

Dr. Angela Mills, chief of emergency medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, and Dr. Brenna Farmer, chief of emergency medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist, both lead large medical teams in high-volume, New York City emergency departments. They discuss what makes New York City such a unique environment for emergency care, from its massive population and cultural complexity, to the severity and array of traumas that can come through the ED doors each day. Then, they share stories behind the life-saving care they provide, and explain why the collaborative spirit and excitement of the emergency room keeps them coming back to work every day.

Dr. Mills and Dr. Farmer also describe some of the ways that they continuously optimize operations in their departments, including addressing language barriers and providing specialized care for patients with complex cardiac needs. Their goal is to ensure that their staff can navigate the organized intensity of the emergency medicine environment without missing a beat.

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Dr. Angela M. Mills is a nationally recognized leader and expert in emergency medicine. She serves as the inaugural chair of the newly designated Department of Emergency Medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and chief of Emergency Medicine Services at NewYork-Presbyterian.

Dr. Brenna M. Farmer is Chief of Emergency Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and vice chair for the Department of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is also an associate professor of clinical emergency medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Farmer is a nationally recognized medical toxicology expert and frequent keynote speaker on quality improvement, patient safety, and medication safety.

For more information visit: nyp.org/Advances

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

How Changing Your Mindset Builds Resilience

podcasts@nyp.org (David Wright, Courtney Allison, Dr. Tony Puliafico) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison visits Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, to speak with two guests: legendary Mets third baseman David Wright and Dr. Tony Puliafico, a psychologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Together, they discuss the importance of approaching challenges and failures with a growth mindset—in professional sports, at home, at work, at school, and beyond.

Through the latest clinical research and stories from David’s time with the Mets, they explore healthy habits for approaching failure, connecting to a supportive community, and building resilience for the long term.

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Anthony Puliafico, Ph.D. is a psychologist with the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian. He is also an associate professor of clinical psychology in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Columbia University and serves as Director of the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CUCARD) -Westchester, an outpatient clinic that specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Puliafico specializes in the assessment and cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety, mood and externalizing disorders. His clinical work and research have focused on the treatment of pediatric OCD, school refusal, and adapting treatments for young children with anxiety.

David Wright was a third baseman and captain for the New York Mets from 2004 to 2018. A seven-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glove Award winner, two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, and a member of the 30–30 club, Wright was recently inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame and had his number 5 retired by the team.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Why It’s Important to Screen for Prostate Cancer

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Michael Feuerstein, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney talks with urologic oncologist Dr. Michael Feuerstein of Columbia and NewYork-Presbyterian The One, a new center for advanced care in Westchester, to discuss the importance of screening for prostate cancer. Dr. Feuerstein explains how blood tests work to detect prostate cancer, explores the latest advancements in treatment, and debunks common myths and misunderstandings about prostate health.

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Dr. Michael Feuerstein, MD, MPH, is the chief of urology at NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester and assistant professor in the Department of Urology at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Feuerstein is a board-certified urologist with over ten years of experience, specializing in minimally-invasive surgery for prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer. He received his medical degree and completed his urology residency training at Albany Medical Center. He completed a two-year fellowship in urologic oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and received a master’s degree in public health at the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. Dr. Feuerstein's research focuses on improving quality of care and quality of life for patients diagnosed with urologic cancers.

Dr. Feuerstein provides care at NewYork-Presbyterian The One, a state-of-the-art center for advanced care with doctors from Columbia in Westchester. The facility offers adult and pediatric care spanning more than 90 specialties and subspecialties, so patients can find the care they and their families need in one convenient location.

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To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Should AI be Used for Therapy?

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Shannon Bennett) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, we explore the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence as a tool for therapy. Dr. Shannon Bennett, associate director of The Center for Youth Mental Health and a psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, identifies the potential for the technology to broaden access to mental health treatment and help therapists improve their care. But she also cautions users to understand that chatbots aren’t always the ideal replacement for human therapists, and come with many concerns around safety, data, and privacy.

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Dr. Shannon Bennett, PhD is associate director of the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian and an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine who specializes in the assessment and treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, OCD, tic disorders, and related conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Bennett oversees clinical services in the outpatient department and partial hospitalization programs, working with adolescents and young adults with anxiety and related conditions in individual and group treatment modalities. Her primary research includes developing, evaluating, and disseminating cognitive-behavioral treatments for anxiety and related disorders. She oversees multiple research studies, teaches, writes, and presents nationally and internationally on these topics, and has co-authored three books on the treatment of youth anxiety and OCD. Dr. Bennett was honored with a Career Development Leadership Award from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and serves on the Medical Advisory Board for the Tourette Association of America.

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Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Should I Avoid Seed Oils?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. David Majure, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, we bust myths about seed oils and learn the difference between saturated fats and unsaturated fats. Dr. David Majure, a cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains different types of fat and fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, including where they come from and what they mean for our health. He also shares the results of several studies that help get to the bottom of the benefits and risks of seed oils.

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Dr. David Majure is the medical director of the Heart Transplant Service at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. He specializes in the care of patients with heart failure, patients requiring or who have a heart transplant or ventricular assist device (LVAD), and patients with pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Majure received his medical degree from The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as well as a Masters in Public Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. He completed his training in cardiology and advanced heart failure at the University of California, San Francisco, where he also served as an assistant clinical professor of medicine. He subsequently served as director of Research of the Advanced Heart Failure Program at the MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C and Director of Mechanical Circulatory Support at North Shore University Hospital, where he developed the left ventricular assist device (LVAD) program. He has contributed extensively to research and has served as principal investigator in multiple clinical trials, exploring all aspects of advanced heart failure. Dr. Majure has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2020.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Do I Need to Stretch?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Katherine Yao, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Katherine Yao, a specialist in rehab and sports medicine, shares how stretching is good for our muscles — and our overall well-being. She also explains the right and wrong ways to stretch, and whether to do it before or after working out. We also return to the Art of Wellbeing series at Lincoln Center, a collaborative effort with NewYork-Presbyterian, the official Hospital for Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, to attend a movement session with The New York City Ballet. Attendees learned warmups, stretches, and choreography from professional dancers. Health Matters host Courtney Allison discusses the event with the dancers who led the event, and reflects on the importance of stretching and posture.

Click here to learn more about the Art of Wellbeing.

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Dr. Katherine Yao is a physiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an assistant professor of clinical rehabilitation medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine where she treats a wide range of sports injuries and musculoskeletal disorders in adults, children, adolescents. Dr. Yao competed as a gymnast at the junior Olympic level and earned several Academic All-American titles on Yale University’s NCAA Division I team. Her experience as an elite student athlete complements her medical training to help her compassionately guide young athletes in managing unique lifestyle demands and challenges. She is currently a National Team Physician for USA Gymnastics and is the head physician for Alvin Ailey Dance School.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts, you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What Are the Health Benefits of a Cold Plunge?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Asad Siddiqi, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters our host, Courtney Allison, talks to rehabilitation medicine specialist, Dr. Asad Siddiqi about what is happening in our bodies when we cold plunge, the health benefits of hopping into frigid water, and some potential risks to keep in mind.

Asad Siddiqi, DO, CAQSM is a sports medicine physician and chief of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. He is also an assistant professor of clinical rehabilitation medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine with board certification in rehabilitation medicine and primary care sports medicine. He specializes in the comprehensive management of acute and chronic sports injuries, concussion care, and injury prevention, and he serves as team physician for the City College of New York, the United Nations International School, and a number of youth sport and performing arts organizations. He was a member of the traveling medical staff for Team USA at the 2015 World Karate Federation Junior and Cadet Under-21 Championships in Jakarta, Indonesia. He also held a weekly performing arts medicine clinic at the South Carolina Governor's School for Arts and Humanities, focused on prevention and management of injuries in the budding visual and performing artist. Additionally, he attained certification as a regional classifier for the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. He maintains active membership in several professional societies including the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and the Association of Academic Physiatrists, which allows him to stay on the cutting edge of evidence-based treatment principles. He is an advocate for healthy lifestyles and physical activity promotion, and is a firm believer that everybody is an athlete.

Health Matters was created to share the remarkable stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare delivery networks.

In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long history of medical excellence, Health Matters features the latest news and insights from our world-class physicians, nurses, and experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our academic partners Columbia University Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Hair Loss?

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Shari Lipner) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Curious about why we lose our hair? This week on Health Matters, dermatologist Dr. Shari Lipner returns to the show to share tips on maintaining a healthy head of hair and preventing hair loss. The most common type of hair loss affect 80% of men and 50% of women. She explains various causes of hair loss and walks listeners through treatments that she recommends to her patients. She explains the studies and debunks myths around popular supplements that promote hair growth.

Dr. Shari Lipner is board certified in dermatology and has a wide range of clinical experience in the diagnosis and management of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She is one of the few experts in nail disorders in the world, and treats patients with nail psoriasis, nail fungal diseases, brittle nails, and nail cancers. She is also one of the leading researchers in dermatology. She has authored over 400 peer-reviewed publications, numerous books and book chapters, lectures nationally and internationally, and is frequently featured by the media including CNN, NPR, Self, Allure, The Washington Post, and The New York Times for her expertise.

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To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

How Do I Avoid Bug Bites?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Jennifer Small-Saunders, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, we explore how to protect yourself from diseases carried by ticks and mosquitos. Dr. Jennifer Small-Saunders, an infectious disease expert with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, explains why mosquitos are more attracted to some people than others. She also shares symptoms of diseases like West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease, how we can go about our summer activities without getting bitten, and what to do if you’ve been bitten.

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Dr. Jennifer Small-Saunders is an Infectious Diseases physician-scientist who studies molecular mechanisms of antimalarial drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum parasites. She is a practicing Infectious Diseases physician who sees patients on both the Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases teaching services. She completed Internal Medicine residency and Infectious Diseases fellowship at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC). Her postdoctoral studies investigated the landscape of mutations in the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter PfCRT and how these mutations contribute to parasite resistance to chloroquine and piperaquine in Asia and Africa. Her group now uses mass spectrometry and gene editing techniques to study the role of tRNA modification reprogramming and translational control in resistance to the first line antimalarial, artemisinin. The goal of her group is to uncover stress-response pathways in malaria parasites that can be targeted by new treatments.

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Why is Air Quality Worse in the Summer?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Kalliope Tsirilakis, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters we discuss how to breathe easier this summer with Dr. Kalliope Tsirilakis, a pediatric pulmonologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. She explains why heat and wildfires make air quality worse in the summer, and shares tips on how to protect lung health.

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Kalliope Tsirilakis, M.D. is the director of pediatric pulmonology and the Pediatric Asthma Center at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens. She is also an assistant attending pediatrician at NewYork-Presbyterian Komansky Children's Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine. A lifelong New Yorker, born in Brooklyn and raised in Westchester, she graduated from Weill Cornell Medicine and completed her residency in pediatrics at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Tsirilakis continued her training at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx, where she completed a fellowship in pediatric respiratory medicine. She is board certified in pediatrics and pediatric pulmonology. Her expertise includes the full spectrum of pediatric pulmonary conditions, with special expertise in severe asthma, patient education, quality improvement, flexible bronchoscopy, and aerodigestive disorders.

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How Do I Prepare for an Emergency?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Brenna Farmer, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, we’re joined by Dr. Brenna Farmer of NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine to talk through what you need to do to be prepared for emergencies. From the supplies you need in case of summer storms and power outages to the simple safety tips to prevent trips to the emergency room during summer fun, Dr. Farmer offers listeners the basics of emergency preparedness.

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Brenna Farmer, MD is the chief of emergency medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and vice chair for the Department of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is also an associate professor of clinical emergency medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Farmer has previously served as an assistant residency program director for NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital’s Emergency Medicine Residency program. Dr. Farmer is board certified in both emergency medicine and toxicology. She is active nationally in several organizations and is a fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians, American Academy of Emergency Medicine, and the American College of Medical Toxicology. Her primary areas of focus are quality improvement, patient safety, and medication safety.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

An Expert’s Guide to Healthy Summer Skin

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Victoria Perez, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 9 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

It’s fun to be outside in the sun, but it also means you’re at greater risk for sun burns, bug bites, and other skin issues. This week, dermatologist Dr. Victoria Perez of NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia offers an expert guide to how to protect your skin this summer and all year round. She discusses the best sunscreen to use, how to manage bug bites and heat rashes, and when it’s time to see a doctor for your skin ailment.

NewYork-Presbyterian experts will be sharing simple tips all month long on how to stay healthy and safe this summer.

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Dr. Perez will provide dermatology services at NewYork-Presbyterian The One, a state-of-the-art center for advanced care with doctors from Columbia in Westchester. NewYork-Presbyterian The One is now accepting appointments and opens in September 2025. The facility will offer adult and pediatric care spanning more than 90 specialties and subspecialties, so patients can find the care they and their families need in one convenient location.

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Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

How Sharing Your Story Can Help You Heal

podcasts@nyp.org (Anna Roberts, Dr. Rita Charon, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Health Matters, we explore the power of storytelling in a health journey. As part of the Art of Wellbeing series at Lincoln Center, a collaborative effort with NewYork-Presbyterian, the official Hospital for Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, we attend a storytelling workshop with The Moth, a nonprofit dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling. The workshop guided attendees through telling a personal story about their own health, led by an expert instructor. Health Matters host Courtney Allison discusses the healing power of storytelling with workshop facilitator, Anna Roberts, and reflects on the importance of stories with Dr. Rita Charon, a general internist, founder of the field of narrative medicine, and chief of the Division of Narrative Medicine at Columbia. Dr. Charon helps train doctors to be better listeners so that they can treat the whole patient.

Click here to learn more about the Art of Wellbeing and upcoming events.

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Dr. Rita Charon is a general internist and literary scholar who originated the field of narrative medicine. She is Professor and Founding Chair of the Department of Medical Humanities and Ethics and Professor of Medicine at Columbia University. She completed her MD at Harvard in 1978 and PhD in English at Columbia in 1999, concentrating on narratology. Her research focuses on the consequences of narrative medicine practice, narrative medicine pedagogy, and health care team effectiveness.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

How Music Has Made Me a Better Surgeon

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Peter Liou, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Health Matters, we talk to Dr. Peter Liou, a transplant surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, whose passion outside of work is playing the piano. He shares how the lessons he’s learned in music — and the discipline it takes to master a song — translates to the work he does in the operating room.

Dr. Liou was recently part of the surgical team at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center that performed the first fully robotic liver transplant in New York. He shares what it was like to be part of the pioneering procedure and describes how surgery, like playing music, is an art. He also talks about how music taught him about both failure and resilience — and how his childhood piano teacher, Miss Olga, remains one of the most influential mentors in his life.

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Dr. Peter Liou is also an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. He is board-certified in general surgery and received specialty training in abdominal transplant and hepatobiliary surgery. Dr. Liou received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry and Music from Columbia College, and subsequently attended medical school at Columbia.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Why Am I Feeling Dizzy?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Louise Klebanoff, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, we discuss what causes dizziness with Dr. Louise Klebanoff, a neurologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Klebanoff explains the different types of dizziness, such as lightheadedness, vertigo, and gait instability. We also cover how to differentiate between these types, the potential causes, and when to seek medical attention.

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Dr. Louise Klebanoff, MD has been named the Chief of General Neurology and the Vice Chair of Operations for the Department of Neurology at Weill Cornell Medical College. She is also an Assistant Attending Neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.

Dr. Klebanoff received her medical degree from Georgetown University Medical Center, graduating first in her class, and went on to complete a residency in Neurology and a fellowship in Critical Care Neurology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center.

Prior to joining the Weill Cornell faculty, Dr. Klebanoff served as Attending Neurologist at Beth Israel Medical Center, where she also held leadership roles on various committees and served as the first female president of the Medical Board.

Dr. Klebanoff is board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. She is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society, the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Neurology.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Daily Habits to Age Well

Wed, 4 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters we reflect on the top health tips and takeaways from our May series dedicated to Women’s Health Month. Courtney is joined by Angelique Serrano to talk more about how to care for our skin, bone, and brain health, as well as ways to recognize and manage perimenopause symptoms. In their conversations with Health Matters, neurologist Dr. Sonja Blum and dermatologist Dr. Shari Lipner shared small daily habits that can make big contributions to long term health. Dr. Mary Rosser, an OB-GYN, shares a process for tackling sleep issues during perimenopause. Physiatrist Dr. Erica Eldon explains the importance of bone strength and how to prevent ailments like a broken hip. Courtney and Angelique share how the advice from NewYork-Presbyterian doctors opens space for women to discuss health care decisions in ways that are often overlooked and how they are inspired to prioritize their own health.

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Health Matters shares stories of science, care, and wellness from NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare systems.

NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters features the latest news and insights from our world-class physicians, nurses, and experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our academic partners Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.

To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org/

How Do I Keep My Brain Healthy?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Sonja Blum, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 28 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Sonja Blum, a neurologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine.

Dr. Blum shares simple ways to protect your brain health as you age.

They explore the science behind nutrition and exercise in relation to the brain, as well as the importance of social engagement, mental health, and quality sleep. They also speak about evidence that shows how meditation benefits the brain. Plus, they touch on whether or not brain puzzles actually help with cognitive function, and the unique brain health challenges faced by women.

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Dr. Sonja Blum, M.D., Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine and Associate Attending at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, and the Director of Memory Disorders and Cognitive Neurology Division at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Blum sees adults of all ages who are having memory, attention, language, and other cognitive concerns, or who have a family history of dementia and concerned about their risks. Dr. Blum also has expertise in traumatic brain injury (TBI), including recovery from disorders of consciousness (DOC) and the long-term effects of moderate to severe TBI, as well as concussions. Her research focuses on mechanisms of cognitive aging and long-term memory dysfunction, and traumatic brain injury. Dr. Blum trained as a physician scientist completing the MD/PhD program at the University of Texas McGovern Medical School in Houston. She completed her neurology residency and behavioral neurology fellowship at the Columbia University Neurological Institute in New York City.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What Are the Symptoms of Perimenopause?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Mary Rosser, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 21 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Mary Rosser, a gynecologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, explains perimenopause, breaking down what symptoms are normal, when it's time to see a doctor, and the best options for managing some of the more challenging symptoms of perimenopause.

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Dr. Mary L. Rosser, M.D., Ph.D., NCMP is the Director of Integrated Women's Health at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the Richard U. and Ellen J. Levine Assistant Professor of Women's Health (in Obstetrics and Gynecology) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons. She joined the faculty of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University in April 2018 to provide routine gynecology care and to further develop a comprehensive well-woman program. She has been a practicing obstetrician gynecologist for more than 20 years, starting in private practice and then joining the faculty at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY. While at Montefiore, she created, launched, and led the forty-person Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rosser received her undergraduate degree at Emory University and a Ph.D. in Endocrinology at the Medical College of Georgia. She attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Emory University. She is also a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner, able to provide high-quality care for patients at menopause and beyond.

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How Can I Build Stronger Bones?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Erica Eldon, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 14 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Erica Eldon, physiatrist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia.

They discuss how our body builds strong and healthy bones, and what happens to our bones as they age—including why they can get brittle and contribute to things like breaks in hips or wrists, and even losing height in our spine.

Dr. Eldon describes the key factors in maintaining bone health over time. She explains why it’s especially important for women to incorporate resistance training into their self care, and offers some practical steps for everyone to take toward strong, healthy bones at every phase of life.

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Dr. Erica Eldon, DO, is doctor of interventional spine care with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. She specializes in treating patients with acute and chronic musculoskeletal and spine injuries. Dr. Eldon is board eligible in both Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine. She received her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from Midwestern University-Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, underwent residency training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital where she also served as Chief Resident, and completed a multidisciplinary pain medicine fellowship at Weill Cornell/NewYork Presbyterian Hospital, Hospital for Special Surgery, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital.

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If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

What is the Best Skin Care Routine?

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Shari Lipner) — Wed, 7 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

These days it seems like everyone has a take on the ideal skin care routine. So rather than listen to an influencer or celebrity, we decided to ask one of our experts: what is the right way to care for our skin over time? And what vitamins and products are actually important?

NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medical dermatologist Dr. Shari Lipner shares some of her recommendations for how to take care of your skin, addresses some myths about skin and aging and gets into which fads may actually be dangerous for your health.

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Dr. Shari Lipner is board certified in Dermatology and has a wide range of clinical experience in the diagnosis and management of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She is one of the few experts in nail disorders in the world, and treats patients with nail psoriasis, nail fungal diseases, brittle nails, and nail cancers. She is also one of the leading researchers in dermatology. She has authored over 400 peer-reviewed publications, numerous books and book chapters, lectures nationally and internationally, and is frequently featured by the media including CNN, NPR, Self, Allure, The Washington Post, and The New York Times for her expertise.

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How Can I Manage Anxiety?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Courtney DeAngelis, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Courtney DeAngelis, a clinical psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia discusses what happens in the mind and body during anxiety, distinguishes between anxiety attacks and panic attacks, and shares effective strategies and practical advice for managing anxiety.

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Courtney DeAngelis, PsyD, is an Assistant Professor of Medical Psychology (in Psychiatry) within the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Columbia University. She also serves as a licensed clinical psychologist at the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders-Westchester (CUCARD-Westchester).

Dr. DeAngelis specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, mood, habit, posttraumatic stress, and disruptive behavior disorders. She has expertise in treating OCD, generalized, separation, and social anxiety disorders, specific phobias, posttraumatic stress disorder, and childhood externalizing disorders (ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder).

Throughout her career, Dr. DeAngelis has received specialized training in the provision of several evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (EX/RP), functional family therapy (FFT), and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Dr. DeAngelis has more recently received specialized training in the treatment of complicated grief. She is accepting patients of all ages who may be experiencing traumatic stress and/or grief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Do I Have Allergies or a Cold?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Aaron Pearlman, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney is joined by Dr. Aaron Pearlman, an otolaryngologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. They discuss the most common questions about seasonal allergies, including what medications to consider and lifestyle tips to help ease symptoms. They also explore how to tell whether symptoms like a runny nose and watery eyes are due to allergies or a cold.

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Aaron N. Pearlman, MD is an associate clinical professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and a rhinologist with NewYork-Presbyterian. His clinical focus is on chronic inflammatory diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses, treating patients both medically and surgically. He is an advanced specialist in endoscopic sinus surgery and anterior skull base surgery. He is a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, a fellow of the American Rhinologic Society, and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has served on various committees within the American Academy of Otolaryngology and the American Rhinologic Society. He is a leader in the field of rhinology and has presented his research at various meetings within the United States and abroad. Dr. Pearlman is the lead author and co-author of numerous peer-reviewed articles within the medical literature. He has also authored chapters in an array of medical textbooks and has been interviewed and quoted by the Washington Post, The Atlantic, and Self, amongst others.

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Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

What Your Smartwatch Tells You About Your Health

podcasts@nyp.org (NewYork-Presbyterian) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison talks to Dr. Corey Bradley, a cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about smartwatches and heart health. Dr. Bradley breaks down the many metrics that smartwatches are capable of gathering and how to decode that health data. She also explains how concerned you need to be about irregular heart rate notifications, what your sleep score actually means and whether smartwatch readings are actually accurate.

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Surprising Facts About Organ Donation

podcasts@nyp.org (Angelique Serrano, Dr. Alyson Fox) — Wed, 9 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

For National Donate Life Month, Health Matters revisits the conversation between our host, Angelique Serrano, and NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia transplant hepatologist Dr. Alyson Fox. They talk about the differences between living donation and deceased donation, walk through the steps of preparation and recovery for organ donation and transplant, and the importance of this lifesaving gift.

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Alyson Fox, MD, is medical director of the adult transplant program at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Fox's clinical practice is focused on the management of patients with a variety of liver diseases including viral hepatitis, alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases, inherited and autoimmune liver diseases and liver cancers. As a transplant hepatologist, she has advanced training in the management of the complications of end stage liver disease and caring for patients both pre- and post-liver transplantation. When she is not caring for patients, she is active as a course director and educator at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

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How Does Alcohol Impact the Gut Microbiome?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Stephanie Rutledge, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Stephanie Rutledge, transplant hepatologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine.

They dig into a fascinating connection between the health of the gut microbiome and the health of the liver, by exploring the impacts of drinking alcohol on both. Microbes in the gut are affected by what we eat and drink, and the consequences of drinking alcohol may be more serious than you expect. Dr. Rutledge describes how serious cases may even require a fecal transplant.

But there are simple steps you can take to improve the health of your gut microbiome. Dr. Rutledge describes how quickly a dysfunctional microbiome can recover once someone stops drinking, and offers health tips that can improve anyone’s liver health. Even just a month of better habits can have big results for the gut microbiome, the liver, and overall health.

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Dr. Stephanie Rutledge is a gastroenterologist and transplant hepatologist with NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. She treats alcohol use disorder and alcohol-associated liver disease with Weill Cornell Medicine’s Center for Alcohol and Liver Medicine (CALM). Dr. Rutledge received her MBBCh BAO from University College Dublin, completed residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, and completed her Gastroenterology and Transplant Hepatology Fellowship at Mount Sinai Hospital.

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How My Dogs Taught Me to Be a Better Doctor

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. David Slotwiner, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Health Matters, we celebrate Doctor’s Day. Dr. David Slotwiner, Chief of Cardiology at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, shares how his dogs Cosmo and Luna have taught him about perseverance and problem solving, making him a better leader and doctor.

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David Slotwiner, MD, is the Chief of Cardiology at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens. Dr. Slotwiner is a board certified Cardiologist specializing in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology practicing at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens hospital located in Flushing, NY. He received his medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, completed his internship in Internal Medicine, residency in Cardiovascular Disease and fellowship in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Slotwiner is board certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology. He specializes in heart diseases such as congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, and heart failure.

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Should I Be Worried About Bird Flu?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Marcus Pereira, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison is joined by infectious disease expert from NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, Dr. Marcus Pereira, to learn what we need to know about bird flu.

Dr. Pereira explains that while the cases of bird flu in humans have been mostly mild, there is still a risk that the virus could mutate and spread more easily from human-to-human. He talks about ways to protect ourselves from bird flu, and explains whether it’s safe to eat eggs, meat and other dairy products.

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Dr. Marcus Pereira is an Associate Professor of Medicine at CUMC and the Director of Clinical Services in the Division of Infectious Diseases. In addition, he is the Medical Director of the Transplant Infectious Diseases Program, where he oversees the development of infection prophylaxis and treatment protocols for immunocompromised patients. His areas of interest include the management of multi-drug resistant bacterial and fungal infections, as well as drug resistant CMV infections and more recently the impact of COVID-19 in transplant recipients. He has also collaborated in important multi-center studies as well as the 2025 International CMV Guidelines, sponsored by the Transplantation Society. Dr. Pereira is an active member in national societies such as the American Society of Transplantation and Infectious Disease Society of America, and is an Associate Editor for the American Journal of Transplantation.

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Jessica Hennessey, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, as we continue to observe Heart Month, we will explore the role that genetics play in heart health.

Understanding your family history of cardiovascular health is essential. In fact, about 30% of heart disease can be linked to family history. We speak with Dr. Jessica Hennessy, a clinical cardiac electrophysiologist and cardiogenetics expert at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia to help break down which heart conditions and risk factors may be inherited. She provides valuable insight on effectively managing heart health, including the importance of lifestyle modifications in preventing heart disease, including for individuals with a genetic predisposition. She also explains who should get genetic testing and what that process looks like.

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Dr. Jessica Hennessey specializes in Cardiac Electrophysiology, with a special focus on Sports & Exercise Cardiology. She practices primarily in New York, NY, and is affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Hennessey graduated from Duke University School of Medicine in 2014, and completed her training at Massachusetts General Hospital, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. She is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Cardiac Electrophysiology.

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Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.

Can Better Listening Improve Your Relationships?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Steven Mazza, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters, Courtney Allison is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Steven Mazza of NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia to explore how to improve your listening skills and the powerful benefits of being a good listener.

Dr. Mazza explains how focusing on our own thoughts can keep us from listening well and really connecting with the people we care about. He also describes the surprising ways that our own minds may be the biggest obstacle to being fully present, and he offers advice for anyone who wants to retrain their brain and learn better listening.

Listening better can lead to significant benefits in relationships with parents, children, friends, and coworkers. Becoming a better listener might be a lifelong process, but Dr. Mazza offers simple tips to start.

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Steven J Mazza, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Medical Psychology at Columbia University. He is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Clinical Director of the ABC Early Childhood Program at ColumbiaDoctors. He completed his post-doctoral fellowship at the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CUCARD), where he specialized in applying cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety disorders in children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Mazza is the clinical director of the ABC Early Childhood Program, which provides evidence-based treatments for emotional and behavioral difficulties in children ages 2-8. Dr. Mazza is a public speaker who conducts trainings for leadership teams, caregivers, educators, and summer camp counselors.

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Easy Tips for Heart Health

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Emmanuel Moustakakis, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 5 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

February is Heart Month, so this week on Health Matters we talk about heart health with Dr. Emmanuel Moustakakis, a cardiologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. He reminds us: heart disease is the number one cause of death in the western world for both men and women. So: what can we do about it?

We explored a number of the common misconceptions about heart health that keep people from making small changes that lead to a big difference for addressing coronary artery disease, heart failure, and other kinds of heart disease. From diet and exercise to smoking and sleep, Dr. Moustakakis offered his top health tips for creating lifelong, heart healthy habits.

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Dr. Emmanuel Moustakakis is a board certified Cardiologist specializing in Interventional Cardiology practicing at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens Hospital. He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Houston Medical School, completed his residency in Internal Medicine and fellowships in both Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. Dr. Moustakakis is certified in Interventional Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease with interest in acute coronary syndromes. Dr. Moustakakis is the Director of the Coronary Care Unit at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens hospital.

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January’s Top Health Takeaways

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on Health Matters we look back at health tips and takeaways from the month of January, and discuss what healthy habits are sticking. Courtney is joined by Health Matters editor Angelique Serrano to explore the top health takeaways from our episodes on cold plunges, workouts, the health risks of alcohol and ultraprocessed foods.

In their conversations with Health Matters, Dr. Sonia Tolani and Dr. Asad Siddiqi also shared inspiring resolutions for 2025 that provide examples for overcoming setbacks and sticking to goals. Dr. Robert Brown and Dr. Michelle Loy offer some additional helpful tips for pursuing a healthy lifestyle when it comes to what we eat and drink.

Courtney and Angelique share how the advice from NewYork-Presbyterian doctors has offered them ways to make healthy changes in their own lives.

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Anne Marie Albano, Faith Salie) — Wed, 6 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Health Matters, Faith Salie talks about resilience with Dr. Anne Marie Albano, clinical site co-director of the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian and a child psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Albano offers mental health tips for how caregivers can foster confidence and independence in children and how to keep communication lines open when kids are processing big transitions and challenging issues.

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Health Matters was created to share the remarkable stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare delivery networks.

To learn more visit:

https://healthmatters.nyp.org/

The Art of Healing: How an Artist and Mom Beat Metastatic Breast Cancer

podcasts@nyp.org (Kiley Durham, Dr. Tessa Cigler, Dr. John Ng, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this special live episode of Health Matters for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Courtney Allison sits down with Kiley Durham, a mom, artist, and multi-cancer survivor. They discuss Kiley’s cancer journey, and invite two doctors from Kiley’s care team to join their conversation and reflect on her treatment. Dr. Tessa Cigler, a medical oncologist, and Dr. John Ng, a radiation oncologist, celebrate Kiley’s resilience and how she beat the odds. They also talked about their approach to cancer care, which doesn’t just treat the disease, but surrounds each patient with everything it takes to fight it.

Tips to Become a Better Runner

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Morgan Busko, Faith Salie) — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith talks with Dr. Morgan Busko, a sports medicine doctor with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia and five-time ironman finisher. They discuss the vast health benefits of running, the best way to avoid injuries, and what to focus on to become a more efficient runner.

Breast Cancer: What to Know About Genetic Testing

podcasts@nyp.org (Angelique Serrano, Dr. Meghna Trivedi) — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we revisit our conversation with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia breast oncologist Dr. Meghna Trivedi. She talks with Angelique Serrano about the major risk factors behind breast cancer, the most common genetic factors in cancer risk, and the kinds of prevention strategies that can limit genetic risks.

Caregiving: Tips for the Sandwich Generation

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Cynthia Pan, Faith Salie) — Wed, 9 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith talks with Dr. Cynthia Pan, a specialist in geriatric medicine and palliative care with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. They discuss the Sandwich Generation—people who find themselves caring for elderly parents and young children at the same time. Dr. Pan describes how common it is to be a caregiver for two different generations, and offers strategies for finding help, starting hard conversions, and avoiding burnout.

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl) — Wed, 2 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Did you know there’s more serotonin in the gut than in the brain? The connection between our digestive health and our mental health are strong and surprising. To explore this link, Faith Salie talks with Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia and the Director of Clinical Research at Columbia’s Celiac Disease Center. He’s an expert on the connections between gastrointestinal health and the other systems in our body that rely on good digestion. He describes how GI diseases like Celiac have implications for mental health, and what anyone can do to support their digestive health.

Is Your Phone Giving You Tech Neck?

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Andrew Chan) — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith is joined by Dr. Andrew Chan, a neurosurgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, to discuss the rising issue of Tech Neck. Dr. Chan explains the causes and symptoms of this modern condition, which is linked to poor posture when using devices such as cell phones and computers. He also offers advice on prevention and treatment, including stretches and strengthening exercises.

When Should Men Get Screened For Prostate Cancer?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Alfred Winkler, Faith Salie) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith is joined by urologist Dr. Alfred Winkler from NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. They discuss prostate health and why it’s so important for men to get screened for prostate cancer. Dr. Winkler also shares how it’s among the most treatable cancers, and why some men can be under “active surveillance” and live with the slow-growing cancer with minimal impact on their lives.

Living with Grief and Finding Hope After Loss

podcasts@nyp.org (Courtney Allison, Dr. Elena Lister) — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, our host Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Elena Lister, a psychiatrist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine who specializes in grief. Dr. Lister discusses the importance of facing the many emotions that come with the death of a loved one or other losses. She also talks about her personal experience with grief after the death of her youngest daughter and how to find hope after loss.

How Can I Stop Procrastinating?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Tony Puliafico, Faith Salie) — Wed, 4 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Dr. Tony Puliafico, a psychologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, joins Faith to discuss procrastination. They explore how procrastination relates to mental health, how avoidant behaviors like procrastination get out of hand, and tips on how to stop procrastinating when it becomes a habit that its hindering our daily lives.

Do I Need to Eat More Fiber?

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Carolyn Newberry) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

To address one small change we can all make to make a big improvement in our health, we’re bringing back the conversation between Faith Salie and Dr. Carolyn Newberry, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and the director of the Gastrointestinal Nutrition Program at Weill Cornell Medicine. They discuss the importance of fiber and why we need more of it than we may think.

Am I Having a Headache or a Migraine?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Susan Broner, Faith Salie) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Susan Broner, neurologist and headache specialist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains the difference between a headache and a migraine. She also shares common migraine triggers and the new migraine treatments that offer hope and relief for people who suffer from migraines.

What’s the Best Birth Control Option For Me?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Hoosna Haque, Faith Salie) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Hoosna Haque, an OBGYN at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, discusses what to know about birth control methods, including IUDs, progesterone, and progesterone and estrogen pills. She also dives into concerns people may have about weight gain, mood swings, or impacts to fertility.

Why We Should Get More Sleep

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Ana Krieger, Faith Salie) — Wed, 7 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week we talk to a sleep medicine expert at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to better understand just why sleep is so vital, how to make it a top priority, and to find specific steps we can take each day for a better night’s sleep.

How Can I Avoid Heat Exhaustion?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Rahul Sharma, Faith Salie) — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Rahul Sharma, Emergency Physician-in-Chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Chair of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, discusses how to stay safe during a heat wave, including signs of heat illness and the importance of staying hydrated and cool. Dr. Sharma explains how hydration impacts body function, provides guidelines for fluid intake, and addresses common misconceptions about electrolyte drinks. Dr. Sharma also highlights the importance of staying informed, dressing appropriately, and taking preventive measures.

Do I Need to Take Probiotics?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Daniel Freedberg, Faith Salie) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith talks to Dr. Daniel Freedberg, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. They discuss how the gut microbiome contributes to our overall health, and what we can do to keep the microbes in our gut thriving. Along the way, Dr. Freedberg demystifies probiotics, explains the biggest threat to our gut microbes, and explains why fiber is the most powerful tool for supporting microbial diversity in our digestive system.

New Hope for Brain Cancer Treatment

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Kathryn Beal, Faith Salie) — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With new advances in the treatment of brain cancer, patients have more options than ever. This week, Faith talks with Dr. Kathryn Beal, a radiation oncologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to explore how breakthroughs in immunotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery can successfully treat metastatic cancer in the brain. In recognition of Glioblastoma Awareness Day, Dr. Beal also explains treatment options for gliomas, and her hope for the future for patients with brain tumors and brain metastases.

Introducing Advances in Care: Advancing Medicine with Robot-Assisted Technology

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With perspectives spanning hepatobiliary, gynecologic, and cardiac surgeries, NewYork-Presbyterian’s Dr. Jason Hawksworth (Columbia), Dr. Tamatha Fenster (Weill Cornell Medicine), and Dr. Arnar Geirsson (Columbia) describe how they each came to incorporate robotics into their practices. One of the biggest takeaways: robotic surgeries allow for more accuracy in minimally-invasive approaches; so patients experience shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries, even after major procedures. But there are some limitations to robotic surgeries that the doctors are still navigating. Dr. Fenster discusses how there are haptics limitations in robotic surgery. As a result, she shares more about her innovative smartHER 3D MRI program that is addressing this issue and details how her and her team are developing a way of holographically projecting 3D MRIs over patients to help guide surgeons while they operate.

For more information visit nyp.org/Advances

Essential Summer Skincare Advice

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Shari Lipner, Faith Salie) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With summer in full swing, we’re revisiting an important episode on some of the most common myths about the sun and sunscreen. Faith Salie talks to Dr. Shari Lipner, a dermatologist at NewYork Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine.They discuss guidance on how to choose a sunscreen that works for you and also share helpful tips on how to gauge if a mole could be a sign of something more serious.

What Are the Signs of a Thyroid Condition?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Hyesoo Lo, Faith Salie) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Over 20 million Americans have some kind of thyroid issue – and 12 million of them don't even know it. Dr. Hyesoo Lowe joins Faith to explain what the small and mighty thyroid does — from regulating our body temperature, to supporting heart function, digestion, even energy and mood. They discuss why thyroid issues impact women more than men, what to do to support thyroid health, and explore the signs that might mean it’s time to head to your doctor to look into your thyroid function.

Summer Safety and Camp Basics for Kids

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Melanie Wilson-Taylor, Faith Salie) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith talks to pediatrician Dr. Melanie Wilson-Taylor from NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine about how to prepare your children for the summer. They cover everything from sunscreen to water safety to keeping up with academic skills. Whether your kid is going to sleep away camp or day camp, Dr. Wilson-Taylor shares tips to keep them safe and having fun all summer long.

When Should Men Get Screened For Prostate Cancer?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Alfred Winkler, Faith Salie) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Avoiding Ticks: How to Stay Safe While Enjoying the Outdoors

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Sorana Segal-Maurer) — Wed, 5 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks to Dr. Sorana Segal-Maurer, an infectious disease expert at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about what to do if you or a loved one is bitten by a tick. She debunked some common misconceptions about tick-borne illnesses and breaks down the steps to preventing tick bites and conducting tick checks.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Can Friendships Support My Health?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Colleen Cullen, Faith Salie) — Wed, 29 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith is joined by Dr. Colleen Cullen to discuss how, no surprise, friendship has been shown to have amazing effects on both mental health and physical health. They discuss the recent research behind loneliness, the powerful impacts of friendship on our bodies, as well as how to make new friends as adults and how to nurture the friendships that we have.

How to Manage Anxiety During Pregnancy

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Lauren Osborne) — Wed, 22 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In recognition of Women’s Health Month, we’re revisiting an important episode focused on OB-GYN care. Our host, Faith Salie talks to Dr. Lauren Osborne, an OB-GYN and reproductive psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how to protect mental health during and after pregnancy. Dr. Osborne discusses common anxiety and depression symptoms during this time and provides advice on medication and seeking support.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Can You Heal From Trauma?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. JoAnn Difede, Faith Salie) — Wed, 15 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Faith is joined by Dr. JoAnn Difede, a psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine and a specialist in the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder. “Trauma” is a term that we use every day, but most of us aren’t talking about trauma in the strictly medical sense. Dr. Difede explained how trauma forms when we respond to threats that provoke us to fight, flee, or freeze, and described the difference between trauma and PTSD. Despite the challenging nature of a conversation that covers examples of traumatic events, we end this episode on a hopeful note: effective treatments exist for people with PTSD.

What Are the Signs of Gaslighting?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Warren Ng, Faith Salie) — Wed, 8 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Going by the dictionary, to gaslight someone is a strategy to psychologically manipulate them over a period of time so the targeted person questions the validity of their own thoughts and their perception of reality. While gaslighting isn't a formal medical diagnosis, it can have a big impact on our mental health. To help us better understand the term, since it's everywhere these days, Faith is joined this week by Dr. Warren Ng, a psychiatrist at New York Presbyterian and Columbia, and the Community Health Director for New York Presbyterian's Center for Youth Mental Health. He shares how to recognize the signs of gaslighting and offers tips on how to combat it and protect your mental health.

How Should I Prepare For Menopause?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Susan Loeb-Zeitlin, Faith Salie) — Wed, 1 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Conversations about menopause often raise more questions than answers. This phase of life has been shown to impact everything from mental health to heart health to sleep — leaving many women in search of ways to help manage symptoms and ease this transition. Join Dr. Susan Loeb-Zeitlin, a gynecologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and the director of the Women’s Midlife Center at Weill Cornell Medicine, to explore menopause science in this Women's Health Month episode.

How Common Is Infertility?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Alexis Melnick, Faith Salie) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

How easy is it to get pregnant?

For a successful pregnancy to occur, many things have to happen, including a healthy egg developing, the right quality and quantity of sperm, and the uterus, fallopian tubes, and hormones all functioning optimally. On top of that, the timing has to be just right.

In recognition of Infertility Awareness Week, host Faith Salie talks with Dr. Alexis Melnick, reproductive endocrinologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to dispel the myths of infertility and dig into the realities of human fertility. They explore the facts about conception, similarities between the reproductive hormones for men and women, and talk about the role of fertility treatment for people who want to become parents. In their conversation, Faith and Dr. Melnick share a little of their own stories, and discuss the emotional weight of fertility issues.

More about Dr. Alexis Melnick

Can Going Outside Benefit My Mental Health?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Erin Engle, Faith Salie) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Research has shown that the outdoors can improve a person’s mental and physical health. In honor of Earth Day, Faith is joined this week by Dr. Erin Engle, a psychologist from NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia to discuss the many ways that nature can reduce distractions and impact mood. Whether it's a brief walk around the block, playing outside with your kids, or volunteering at your local community garden, being outside has many benefits for mental health.

Is Any Amount of Alcohol Safe for My Health?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Robert Brown, Faith Salie) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Recent surveys have shown that more than 60% of Americans are alcohol drinkers. But is there such a thing as a safe amount of alcohol? How does alcohol impact your health? Dr. Robert Brown, a hepatologist from NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and gives recommended intakes for men and women.

How Does Living Organ Donation Work?

podcasts@nyp.org (Steve Wilson, Dr. Joseph Del Pizzo, Angelique Serrano) — Wed, 3 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Filling in for Faith this week is Angelique Serrano, a managing editor at NewYork-Presbyterian. In honor of National Donate Life Month, Angelique sat down for a special conversation with living organ donor surgeon Dr. Joseph Del Pizzo, and his patient Steve Wilson, who donated his kidney to a stranger. Steve shares his journey — from his decision to donate to his recovery — while Dr. Del Pizzo offers his perspective on the procedure.

What is High-Functioning Anxiety?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Adrian Jacques Ambrose, Faith Salie) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week we revisit one of our favorite episodes. Host Faith Salie, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian psychiatrist, Dr. Adrian Jacques Ambrose, about high-functioning anxiety, the sometimes crippling stress felt by high-achieving, successful individuals. They keep it together on the outside, but may be filled with self-doubt and racing thoughts on the inside. Dr. Ambrose of NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia joins us to drill down into what high-functioning anxiety looks like and how to manage it.

Is Lead Poisoning Me?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Adam Blumenberg, Faith Salie) — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Are you seeing the headlines about lead poisoning?

Maybe you’ve heard that water bottles contain lead, or that cinnamon in applesauce was poisoning shoppers. Host Faith Salie talked with Dr. Adam Blumenberg to discuss the crucial context for news about lead poisoning. A toxicologist and doctor of emergency medicine, Dr. Blumenberg explains what lead is, what makes it poisonous, and how exposure might happen in our daily lives—and of course, what to do about it.

Colon Cancer Rates Are Rising for Young People—Am I At Risk?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Beatrice Dionigi, Faith Salie) — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Colon cancer is the deadliest form of cancer for men and the second deadliest for women under fifty, behind only breast cancer. Since 2020, colon cancer rates have risen nine percent in people under fifty. Millennials are at a higher risk for early onset colon cancer than previous generations have been.

Take all of that together, and it’s very clear that people of all ages need to educate themselves about the signs of colon cancer and how to prevent it. In this episode, we give you the tools you need to stay vigilant about your colon health.

How Can I Get More Energy?

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Chiti Parikh) — Wed, 6 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Feeling tired? There are simple things you can do to maximize your energy. This week, Dr. Chiti Parikh shares with host Faith Salie ways to help our metabolism and circadian rhythms sync up — which will help with energy throughout the day. Dr. Parikh offers insights from her book, Intentional Health: Detoxify, Nourish, and Rejuvenate Your Body Into Balance, and explains how necessary it is to have a consistent daily routine. Along the way, she describes where hormones like cortisol factor in, and why when you eat can matter as much as what you eat.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Can Food Fight Inflammation?

podcasts@nyp.org (Gabrielle Gambino, Faith Salie) — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie brings back clinical dietitian Gabrielle Gambino to discuss how to combat inflammation through food. They discuss how fermented foods and fiber provide the basis for a heart-healthy diet, what inflammation really means, and how superfoods and nutrient dense foods give our bodies what we need to fuel a healthy lifestyle.

When to Worry About Your Blood Pressure

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Marc Eisenberg, Faith Salie) — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

February is American Heart Month. When's the last time you measured your blood pressure? Do you know what "good" blood pressure even is? Or what about "good" cholesterol?

Brush up on the fundamentals – and get some clear guidelines for keeping tabs on your heart health - from Dr. Marc Eisenberg, a cardiologist from NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Can You See a Doctor About a Broken Heart?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Joy Gelbman, Faith Salie) — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Are those chest pains signs of a heart attack…or a broken heart? Can a broken heart send you to the hospital? Broken Heart Syndrome is a real cardiac event brought on by an intense emotional reaction to life events. In honor of Valentine’s Day, our host Faith speaks with Dr. Joy Gelbman, cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how the heart is a physical and emotional center of our body.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Do You Stick to Your Goals?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Jennifer Cruz, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 7 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Have you kept up with your new year's resolutions? Dr. Jennifer Cruz, a clinical psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia discusses how to manage and maintain realistic goals. Dr. Cruz shares her perspective on setting goals, how to make them more achievable, and why you deserve credit — even when you feel like you’ve fallen short.

Click here for the episode transcript .

What Happens After Dry January?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Robert Brown, Faith Salie) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Many people started off the new year committing to a dry January. But what happens once the month is over? How should we approach alcohol in February and beyond? Whether you're having a dry January or a damp January, Dr. Robert Brown, the chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains why being mindful of our alcohol consumption has many health benefits, and how we can sustain it.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Do I Avoid Getting Sick This Winter?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Harjot Singh, Faith Salie) — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

It’s that time of year again - cold season. While sniffles and congestion are a hallmark of winter, there are a few respiratory viruses that can be far more serious. In this episode, Dr. Harjot Singh, an epidemiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains why we’re more likely to get sick during the colder months and how to protect ourselves from the three major illnesses - COVID-19, the flu and RSV – that pose the biggest threat this time of year.

Click here for the episode transcript.

The Benefits of Blood Donation

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Elizabeth Stone, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

For National Blood Donor Month, Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Elizabeth Stone, assistant director of transfusion medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Unprecedented blood shortages mean that the need for donated blood is as critical as ever. Dr. Stone demystifies the process of giving blood, explains blood types, and shares how both the recipient and the donor can benefit from a single donation.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Why Mindful Eating Is More Effective than Fad Diets

podcasts@nyp.org (Gabrielle Gambino, Faith Salie) — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks with clinical dietitian Gabrielle Gambino, who offers advice on connecting our bodies and minds to our food choices. She explains why a rigid diet plan doesn’t work for most people, and how a mindful approach can help us be more compassionate to ourselves when it comes to what we eat.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Making Reachable Resolutions for the New Year

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Courtney Allison, Dr. Sonia Tolani) — Wed, 3 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

To kick off the new year, Courtney Allison speaks with sports cardiologist Dr. Sonia Tolani about how we can set ourselves up for success with our resolutions around fitness. She describes which forms of exercise are recommended for improving our long term health, why focusing on exercise is more important than focusing on weight loss, and how much it can help to bring along others on our fitness journey.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, Faith Salie) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We’re taking a break for the holidays. New episodes of Health Matters will return in January. For the holiday break, we are republishing one of this year’s most impactful episodes:

Faith Salie talks with Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. He’s also the Director of Clinical Research at Columbia’s Celiac Disease Center, and an expert on the connections between gastrointestinal health and the other systems in our body that rely on good digestion for their function. He describes how GI diseases like Celiac have implications for mental health, and what anyone can do to support their digestive health.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Is Sugar Really Bad For You?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Rekha Kumar, Faith Salie) — Wed, 6 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine endocrinologist Dr. Rekha Kumar, about the effects of sugar and artificial sweeteners on our health, recommendations to moderate sugar intake, and how to navigate the holiday season’s plethora of sweets and treats.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Tips to Protect Brain Health

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Silky Pahlajani, Faith Salie) — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

For Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Faith Salie talks to Dr. Silky Pahlajani, a behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine who specializes in Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Pahlajani describes how Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, what it really means in the body, and the reasons why Alzheimer's is more significant in women than in men. They also discuss why it’s important to challenge ourselves, learn new things, and strengthen our brain health at any age.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Staying Connected Amid the Loneliness Epidemic

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Warren Ng, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

NewYork-Presbyterian Managing Editor Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Warren Ng, a psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, who shares the health impacts of loneliness. Dr. Ng provides ways to strengthen our connections when we’re feeling lonely and gives tips on how to navigate loneliness during the holiday season.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How To Make Regret Work For You

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Robert Leahy, Courtney Allison, Faith Salie) — Wed, 8 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

NewYork-Presbyterian Managing Editor Courtney Allison talks to psychologist Dr. Robert Leahy from Weill Cornell Medicine. He helps define regret and dives into its many manifestations. He shows us how this messy emotion can be used, believe it or not, to our advantage. He provides insight on how to reframe regret from rumination and despair into productive ways of thinking by forming healthy habits and focusing on goals, rather than just feelings.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Ozempic and Weight Loss Drugs: How They Work

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Judith Korner, Jamie Leskowitz, Faith Salie) — Wed, 1 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host Faith Salie is joined by registered dietician Jamie Leskowitz, and endocrinologist Dr. Judith Korner, from NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, to discuss the highly buzzed about obesity and weight loss medications like Ozempic and WeGovy. They break down how these medications work, who benefits most from them, and the side effects to be aware of.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Exercise Changes the Heart

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Sonia Tolani, Faith Salie, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Courtney Allison speaks with sports cardiologist, Dr. Sonia Tolani, who explains how exercise changes the heart. These changes are easy to see in elite athletes, Dr. Tolani gives a behind-the-scenes look at the screening process for athletes to ensure their safety in high-level competition. She also describes how teams can prepare for emergency response, and the life-saving measures that everyone should know when it comes to caring for our hearts.

Click here for episode transcript.

How to Cope Amid Tragedy

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The immense weight of a world in crisis can feel overwhelming. In this special episode of Health Matters, we hear from three mental health experts: Drs. Elena Lister, Shannon Bennett and Warren Ng. They share guidance on how to cope with the anxiety, fear, sadness, and sense of helplessness that many of us are feeling when we witness the unfolding of tragic events. They also offer advice on how we can talk to children about difficult news.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Living with Grief and Finding Hope After Loss

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Elena Lister, Courtney Allison) — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Click here for the episode transcript.

Surprising Facts About Organ Donation

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Alyson Fox, Angelique Serrano, Faith Salie) — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Angelique Serrano, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia transplant hepatologist Dr. Alyson Fox. They talk about the differences between living donation and deceased donation, walk through the steps of preparation and recovery for organ donation and transplant, and the importance of this lifesaving gift.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Breast Cancer: What to Know About Genetic Testing

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Meghna Trivedi, Faith Salie) — Wed, 4 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Angelique Serrano, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia breast oncologist Dr. Meghna Trivedi. For Breast Cancer Awareness month, they discuss the major risk factors behind breast cancer, the most common genetic factors in cancer risk, and the kinds of prevention strategies that can limit genetic risks.

Understanding the Youth Mental Health Crisis

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Courtney Allison, Dr. Shannon Bennett) — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

NewYork-Presbyterian Managing Editor Courtney Allison talks to psychologist Dr. Shannon Bennett about the youth mental health crisis. Dr. Bennett, also the clinical director of the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian, discusses the effects of the pandemic, social media, and climate change on youth mental health. She also provides insight on signs and symptoms, and ways to support young people.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Do Coffee Drinkers Live Longer?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Rekha Kumar, Faith Salie) — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine endocrinologist Dr. Rekha Kumar, about the effects of caffeine on the brain and body, considerations to take when pregnant, recommendations on caffeine consumption, and if caffeine can help us live longer.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Foster Healthy Eating Habits and Understand Eating Disorders

podcasts@nyp.org (Angelique Serrano, Dr. Evelyn Attia, Faith Salie) — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Angelique Serrano speaks with Dr. Evelyn Attia, Director of the Center for Eating Disorders at NewYork-Presbyterian. They discuss the differences between healthy and unhealthy eating, how to recognize the signs of eating disorders, and what treatment options are available today. Dr. Attia offers guidelines for people of all ages who want to have a healthy relationship with food.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Avoid School Avoidance

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Anne Marie Albano) — Wed, 6 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

With a new school year starting, Faith Salie speaks with child psychologist Dr. Anne Marie Albano about the signs of school avoidance. Dr. Albano gives parents and caregivers tips on how to intervene in these situations and offers adults ways to start tough conversations with their kids.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Supplements and Multivitamins: Are They Necessary?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Chiti Parikh, Faith Salie) — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks to Dr. Chiti Parikh, an integrative medicine practitioner and Executive Director of Integrative Health and Wellbeing at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell, about supplements and multivitamins, when to take them, how to check for quality, and what to look for on the label.

What to Know about Going to the Emergency Department

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Alexis Halpern, Faith Salie) — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie speaks with Dr. Alexis Halpern, an Emergency Medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian, about what to expect during a visit to the emergency department. Dr. Halpern talks about when to go to the ED versus an urgent care center, what information to bring for a more efficient visit, and how long patients might spend waiting throughout the process.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Understanding ADHD

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Zachary Blumkin, Faith Salie) — Wed, 9 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faiths talks to Dr. Zachary Blumkin, a psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia to help explain ADHD. He dispels myths, explains treatments, including medication, and talks about why it’s so important to recognize and address ADHD.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Eat More Fiber — and Why You Should

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Carolyn Newberry, Faith Salie) — Wed, 2 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks to Dr. Carolyn Newberry, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and the director of the Gastrointestinal Nutrition Program at Weill Cornell Medicine, about the importance of fiber and why we need more of it than we may think. She also provides helpful tips on how to incorporate fiber into your diet.

Click here for the episode transcript.

What Are Intrusive Thoughts?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Avital Falk, Faith Salie) — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks with Dr. Avital Falk, program director of the Intensive Treatment Program for OCD and Anxiety in collaboration with the NYP Center for Youth Mental Health to help better understand intrusive thoughts. She explained what makes these thoughts so sticky, how people can manage them, and the relationship between intrusive thoughts and OCD.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Memory Works

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. James Noble, Faith Salie) — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks to Dr. James Noble, a neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about the ways we can take care of our memory and whether memory loss should be expected as we get older. Dr. Noble also breaks down the distinctions between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and explains new treatments that are available for patients.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Avoiding Ticks: How to Stay Safe While Enjoying the Outdoors

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Sorana Segal-Maurer, Faith Salie) — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Click here for the episode transcript.

Tips to Protect Young Athletes from Overuse Injuries

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Christopher Ahmad, Faith Salie) — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week, our host Faith Salie talks to Dr. Christopher Ahmad, orthopedic surgeon at New York-Presbyterian and Columbia and the team doctor for the New York Yankees, about how young athletes can protect themselves from injuries. He shared some tips for parents to help their kids stay healthy on the field — including what research has revealed about how some elite baseball players have managed to stay injury-free.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Secrets for a Healthy Heart

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. David Majure, Faith Salie) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week, our host Faith Salie talks to Dr. David Majure, a cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, who describes the measures that promote heart health. He explains how the factors that lead to heart disease are all connected and that reducing the risks will require both individual effort to live a healthier lifestyle and systemic change to support it.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Build Resilience

podcasts@nyp.org (Faith Salie, Dr. Anne Marie Albano) — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks with Dr. Anne Marie Albano, co-clinical director for the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian and a child psychologist at Columbia. Dr. Albano describes how caregivers can foster confidence and independence in children and how to keep communication lines open when kids are processing big transitions and challenging issues.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Essential Summer Skincare Advice

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Shari Lipner, Faith Salie) — Wed, 7 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Faith Salie talks with Dr. Shari Lipner, a dermatologist at NewYork Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about some of the most common myths about the sun and sunscreen. She gave guidance on how to choose a sunscreen that works for you and also shared helpful tips on how to gauge if a mole could be a sign of something more serious.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Tips to Prevent Neck and Back Pain and Relieve Symptoms at Home

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Ricky Singh, Faith Salie) — Wed, 31 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Faith Salie talks to Dr. Ricky Singh, a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine and Pain Medicine at Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Singh describes the common cause of neck and back issues. Whether it’s from technology use or a sports injury, Dr. Singh offers guidance for what people can do at home to reduce pain and protect neck and back health.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Why We Should Get More Sleep

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Ana Krieger, Faith Salie) — Wed, 24 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Click here for the episode transcript.

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, Faith Salie) — Wed, 17 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week Faith Salie talks with Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. He’s also the Director of Clinical Research at Columbia’s Celiac Disease Center, and an expert on the connections between gastrointestinal health and the other systems in our body that rely on good digestion for their function. He describes how GI diseases like Celiac have implications for mental health, and what anyone can do to support their digestive health.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Over?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Yoko Furuya, Faith Salie) — Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to Dr. Yoko Furuya, the Chief Epidemiologist for NewYork-Presbyterian and infectious diseases expert at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. She advises current recommendations for protecting yourself and others from the COVID-19 virus, insight on how it has become endemic, and how we can be better prepared for future pandemics.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How Screen Time Impacts Brain Development

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Heidi Bender, Faith Salie) — Wed, 3 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine neuropsychologist Heidi Allison Bender, about the impact of screen use of children’s health. She explained guidelines for young children under the age of 5, considerations about helping older kids and teenagers set good boundaries, and explored the implications of the latest research into social media’s influence on brain development.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Puberty: Tips to Help Parents Prepare

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, Faith Salie) — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, a pediatrician at NewYork-Presbyterian’s Ambulatory Care Network and Columbia, about ways parents and caregivers can talk to their children about puberty and the changes that come with this stage in life. Dr. Bracho-Sanchez also discusses why puberty may be happening earlier and earlier in children.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Manage Anxiety During Pregnancy

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Lauren Osborne, Faith Salie) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to Dr. Lauren Osborne, an OB-GYN and reproductive psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how to protect mental health during and after pregnancy. Dr. Osborne discusses common anxiety and depression symptoms during this time and provides advice on medication and seeking support.

Click here for the episode transcript.

How to Eat Well for a Longer Life

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Michelle Loy, Faith Salie) — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to Dr. Michelle Loy, an integrative health specialist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about Blue Zones. The Blue Zones are areas of the world identified by researchers for having the highest percentage of people who have lived to 100 years old. Dr. Loy explains how understanding the diets and lifestyles of people in these Blue Zones can offer helpful guidelines for anyone who wants the way they eat to help them live a longer and healthier life.

Click here for the episode transcript.

What is High-Functioning Anxiety?

podcasts@nyp.org (Dr. Adrian Jacques Ambrose, Faith Salie) — Wed, 5 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week our host, Faith Salie, talks to NewYork-Presbyterian psychiatrist, Dr. Adrian Jacques Ambrose, about high-functioning anxiety, the sometimes crippling stress felt by high-achieving, successful individuals. They keep it together on the outside, but may be filled with self-doubt and racing thoughts on the inside. Dr. Ambrose of NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia joins us to drill down into what high-functioning anxiety looks like and how to manage it.

Click here for the episode transcript.

Welcome to Health Matters

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 18:06:12 +0000

Health Matters from NewYork-Presbyterian is an essential, empowering weekly podcast on health and wellness.

Health Matters provides straightforward, clear answers to everyday questions, directly from the experts at the forefront of medicine. It’s the perfect, fifteen-minute dose of info and insight for anyone looking to prioritize health and wellness for themselves and their family.

Learn more at healthmatters.nyp.org.

Health Matters

Why Allergies Happen and How to Find Relief

Gut Health, Fiber, and the Microbiome, Explained

How Do Endocrine Disruptors Impact Our Health?

Diet and Your Heart: Can What You Eat Improve Your Numbers?

Is ‘Cozy Cardio’ as Effective as High-Intensity Workouts?

How Does Alcohol Change Your Brain?

Can Biohacking Reverse the Aging Process?

ADVANCES IN CARE: Exploring Psychedelics as the Next Wave of Psychiatric Innovation

The Top Takeaways From This Year of Health Matters

How Can I Avoid Holiday Bloat?

How Should I Manage A Relationship with a Narcissist?

Can Supplements Harm Your Liver?

How Exercise Changes the Heart

How Can I Tell If I Have Shingles?

What's the Best Way to Take Care of My Eyes?

The Benefits of Blood Donation

What's the Difference Between High-Fructose Corn Syrup and Cane Sugar?

Breast Cancer Myths Debunked

ADVANCES IN CARE: Managing the Complexity of NewYork-Presbyterian’s High Volume Emergency Departments

How Changing Your Mindset Builds Resilience

Why It’s Important to Screen for Prostate Cancer

Should AI be Used for Therapy?

Should I Avoid Seed Oils?

Do I Need to Stretch?

What Are the Health Benefits of a Cold Plunge?

What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Hair Loss?

How Do I Avoid Bug Bites?

Why is Air Quality Worse in the Summer?

How Do I Prepare for an Emergency?

An Expert’s Guide to Healthy Summer Skin

How Sharing Your Story Can Help You Heal

How Music Has Made Me a Better Surgeon

Why Am I Feeling Dizzy?

Daily Habits to Age Well

How Do I Keep My Brain Healthy?

What Are the Symptoms of Perimenopause?

How Can I Build Stronger Bones?

What is the Best Skin Care Routine?

How Can I Manage Anxiety?

Do I Have Allergies or a Cold?

What Your Smartwatch Tells You About Your Health

Surprising Facts About Organ Donation

How Does Alcohol Impact the Gut Microbiome?

How My Dogs Taught Me to Be a Better Doctor

Should I Be Worried About Bird Flu?

Ask a Doctor: A Pediatrician Answers Kids’ Questions

What is the Link Between Diet and Colon Cancer?

How to Foster Healthy Eating Habits and Understand Eating Disorders

Does Family History or Lifestyle Determine Heart Health?

Can Better Listening Improve Your Relationships?

Easy Tips for Heart Health

January’s Top Health Takeaways

Do Zones and VO2 Max Matter?

What Are the Health Risks of Ultraprocessed Foods?

Should I Take a Break from Alcohol?

What Are the Health Benefits of a Cold Plunge?

Our Top Health Takeaways of 2024

How to Have Difficult Conversations

Can Food Choices Fight Inflammation?

How Do I Talk to My Kid About Puberty?

Can GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs Protect the Heart?

How to Build Resilience

The Art of Healing: How an Artist and Mom Beat Metastatic Breast Cancer

Tips to Become a Better Runner

Breast Cancer: What to Know About Genetic Testing

Caregiving: Tips for the Sandwich Generation

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health ​

Is Your Phone Giving You Tech Neck?

When Should Men Get Screened For Prostate Cancer?

Living with Grief and Finding Hope After Loss

How Can I Stop Procrastinating?

Do I Need to Eat More Fiber?

Am I Having a Headache or a Migraine?

What’s the Best Birth Control Option For Me?

Why We Should Get More Sleep

How Can I Avoid Heat Exhaustion?

Do I Need to Take Probiotics?

New Hope for Brain Cancer Treatment

Introducing Advances in Care: Advancing Medicine with Robot-Assisted Technology

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

Our Guts and Brain: The Connection Between Digestive Health and Mental Health